Tbilisi: The works created by renowned Georgian sculptor and graphic artist Gia Japaridze adorn a number of central streets, bridges, and squares in Tbilisi. Among his distinctive sculptural works, the most famous is the composition titled ‘Youth’ on the Baratashvili Bridge, which has become one of Tbilisi’s calling cards. The life-sized bronze ‘permanent residents’ of the central bridge strongly attract tourists and foreign visitors to Tbilisi. This spot is one of the city’s main locations for taking souvenir photos.
According to Azeri-Press news agency, Japaridze’s works have long crossed national borders. Monuments, sculptures, and compositions created by him have been installed in countries such as the Netherlands, France, Moldova, Russia, Italy, and the United States. His works are held in the personal collections of a number of presidents and prime ministers, as well as Pope John Paul II.
Another monument created by the Georgian sculptor is located in Baku. This is the ‘Liberated Energy’ monument complex on Tbilisi Avenue, symbolizing Azerbaijani-Georgian friendship. The monument, a special gift from Georgia’s former President Eduard Shevardnadze to Baku and to Azerbaijan’s National Leader Heydar Aliyev, was inaugurated on May 9, 1998.
Japaridze recently spoke with APA’s Tbilisi correspondent in an interview about the history behind the creation of the monument. He shared that the theme of the horse has been a lifelong motif in his work, which played a central role in his selection to create the ‘Liberated Energy’ monument. The composition symbolizes the release of energy from beneath the ground and was a collaborative project with Azerbaijani architect Elbay Gasimzade.
Japaridze also recalled the ceremonial opening of the monument and the honor of being invited by Heydar Aliyev to his birthday celebration. He praised Aliyev’s significant contributions to Azerbaijan-Georgia relations and his role as a far-sighted leader in the region.
Reflecting on the lasting impact of the ‘Liberated Energy’ monument, Japaridze expressed interest in the idea of turning the unnamed park where the monument is located into an Azerbaijan-Georgia Friendship Park. He also conveyed his enthusiasm for potentially creating new works that celebrate the friendship between the two countries.
In discussing the potential for future projects, Japaridze mentioned his interest in creating a composition featuring the renowned Karabakh horse, symbolizing Azerbaijan’s aspirations and forward movement. He noted that such a project would be a significant honor.
Japaridze also touched on his previous work, including the bust of Azerbaijani vocal performer Bulbul in Tbilisi, and expressed hope for stronger cultural ties between Georgia and Azerbaijan. Despite the lack of a solo exhibition in Baku, he remains optimistic about future opportunities for artistic collaboration and cultural exchange between the two nations.